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Major Hormones and What They Do

Tap a hormone to see its role.

Insulin

Produced by the pancreas, insulin lowers blood sugar levels by helping cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy or storage.

Cortisol

Often called the "stress hormone," cortisol is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress and helps regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and the immune response.

Melatonin

Produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, melatonin helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and signals to the body that it is time to sleep.

Adrenaline (Epinephrine)

Released rapidly during the "fight or flight" response, adrenaline increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability to prepare the body for immediate action.

Thyroid Hormones

Produced by the thyroid gland, these hormones regulate the body's overall metabolic rate, affecting energy levels, body temperature, and weight.

Estrogen and Testosterone

The primary sex hormones, produced mainly in the ovaries and testes respectively, which regulate reproductive development and function, though both are present at different levels in all bodies.

The endocrine system's messaging network

Hormones are chemical messengers released by glands throughout the body β€” collectively called the endocrine system β€” that travel through the bloodstream to regulate everything from metabolism and mood to growth and reproduction, often working together in interconnected feedback loops.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when hormone levels are imbalanced?

Hormonal imbalances can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on which hormone is affected, from fatigue and weight changes to mood swings and sleep problems, and persistent symptoms are worth discussing with a doctor.

Can lifestyle habits affect hormone levels?

Yes β€” factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and stress can all meaningfully influence hormone levels, particularly cortisol and melatonin, which is why healthy daily habits are often recommended for hormonal balance.